Hippie Music - Songs with a Message - Hippies From A to Z by Skip Stone Songs With A Message Do you believe in rock 'n roll? Can music save your mortal soul? Don McLean (American Pie) Hippies use music to express themselves emotionally, spiritually, and politically. Music can make a statement, give voice to a movement, even unite us. As hippies explore their inner world, music guides them along in their quest for meaning. Without drugs it can get you high. With drugs, well, let's just say, music can be a religious experience. To explain the impact of music as a social phenomenon, we need to go back before the hippies to the Civil Rights Movement. The protesters would sing a song called "We Shall Overcome". The Rev. Wyatt Tee Walker, an associate of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said: "One cannot describe the vitality and emotion this hymn evokes across the Southland. I have heard it sung in great mass meetings with a thousand voices singing as one. I've heard a half dozen sing it softly behind the bars of the Hinds County Prison in Mississippi. I have heard old women singing it on the way to work in Albany, Ga.

I've heard the students singing it as they were being dragged away to jail. It generates power that is indescribable. It manifests a rich legacy of musical literature that serves to keep body and soul together for that better day which is not far off." So the early sixties saw music becoming more than just entertainment. It was now music with a message. And the messages our poets sang helped us identify with important issues and events that concerned us all. They spurred us to action. These songs had an impact on the consciousness of not just hippies but all society. Some of these songs also broke new ground musically. One way or another they hit us deeply, made us think, made us dream, made us feel as one people. The musicians listed below were the inspiration for much of the music that has been made since. This includes Heavy Metal, Punk, Disco, Rap, Hip Hop, and Techno. Some of the artists in this list, many of the greatest, devoted the last years of their lives to sharing their music with the world. They touched millions of us, each in a unique way. Also visit: Hippyland's Music Page - Links to other great music sites.

Famous Hippy Quotes - Our page of great quotes from the Beats and hippies in music and literature. Hipplanet's Music Store to buy the music on this page or other great music! The Musicians and Their Music The Top 40 Hippie Songs are highlighted in Blue Recommended CDs are highlighted in Rust The Allman Brothers Greg and Duane Allman, and Dicky Betts could really jam. Their live concerts are the stuff of legend. Their southern rock sound conquered the north as well. Duane's death in a motorcycle accident was a shock, but the band carried on and has scored many hits since. Eat a Peach - This recording includes "Melissa", "Blue Sky", and the 33+ minute "Mountain Jam". Another great choice is Live at Filmore East with "Whipping Post". This band could really put on a show. America America's laid back, easy listening sound won many fans. Their soft acoustic melodies and crisp harmonies put America on the Pop map with tunes like "Horse With No Name", "Ventura Highway" and "Sandman". Their first album, America, was very timely with an American Indian flavored cover, and ran up the charts.

Their latest release is called Human Nature (1998). History: America's Greatest Hits (1975) has most of their best songs. The Animals The Animals were part of the original British Invasion that included the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Herman's Hermits and the Dave Clark Five. Eric Burdon, the lead singer, is a legend among blues rockers. "House of the Rising Sun" and "We've Gotta Get Out of This Place" are two of their big hits. The Best of the Animals. Remastered, from mono! - remember that? The Association This pop group specialized in upbeat love songs. Their great melodies, tight harmonies, and lively rhythms made them very popular. "Cherish" and "Never My Love" are classic love songs. Greatest Hits - This release includes "Cherish", "Windy", "Never My Love", and "Along Comes Mary". We're more popular than Jesus now; I don't know which will go first- rock and roll or Christianity. John Lennon The Beatles When the Beatles came to America in 1964 it really was an invasion of new music, style and attitude.

They not only turned the music world upside down with their electric guitars, their happy harmonies, long hair and mod fashions, but suddenly music was fun like it hadn't been since Elvis. We boomers couldn't get enough of them, as Beatlemania swept the country. With fame and fortune theirs, they realized they could do anything, and decided to experiment with new sounds, new electronic techniques, and new drugs. What followed was the most innovative music the world had ever seen. The Beatles got serious about their music and the messages it conveyed. After all they are the biggest band ever and their influence was worldwide. Credit John Lennon with much of the creative new work and deeper messages. George Harrison took the Beatles on a turn to the East with Ravi Shankar inspired sitar work and philosophical lyrics. Paul McCartney added a much-needed light cheery touch to their music. There's no way we can measure the profound impact of the Beatles on other artists and the course of human history. I don't know a single hippy who didn't love them. As a group the Beatles had their ups and downs, and when they called it quits, no one wanted to believe it.

Fortunately their legacy lives on in some of the best music to ever slip through our ears and grace our minds. She Loves You - (1964) Their first hit single in the U.S., this record is so full of joy, you couldn't help but be happy listening to it. The Beatles' infectious harmonies, their haircuts, their appeal to teenage girls made their first trip to the U.S. to be on Ed Sullivan one of the high points of Rock and Roll. Beatlemania was here to stay. Yesterday - (1966) Yesterday and Today The best song Paul McCartney ever wrote (according to John). A melancholy ballad lamenting a lost love, it affected just about everybody. I Am the Walrus - (1967) Magical Mystery Tour Beatles fans debated the meaning of the lyrics in this John Lennon tune. The Beatles were in their most experimental phase in the studio and many of the special sound effects that were to become a Beatle trademark can be heard here. And just what DID the chorus sing at the end of the record? With A Little Help From My Friends - (1967) Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band Not a drug song!

Yeah, and Yoko's the best thing to ever happen to the Beatles. Not! Ringo's singing was fortunately overshadowed by the lyrics and its placement on Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. The best version ever done was by Joe Cocker, live at Woodstock! Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds - (1967) Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band Gee, they couldn't even fool ol' pussy footin' Spiro Agnew into believing it was just about a girl (with Kaleidoscope eyes!). Now we knew just what inspired the Beatles latest creative spurt. Let It Be - (1970) Let It Be Another McCartney hit, supposedly a tribute to his mother, Mary, not a drug song, yeah, right. Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band - (1967). This landmark concept album marked a transition for the Beatles and everyone who listened to the various stories told herein. This Album won the Golden Hippy for best album in Hippyland's Hall of Fame! Other must haves for the Beatle fans are: Rubber Soul, Magical Mystery Tour, Abbey Road, and The White Album (named for its white cover).

For just the hits try the 1962-1966 (Red Album) and for the later hits, 1967-1970 (Blue Album). Blind Faith This short lived group was most notable for the matching of Eric Clapton's virtuoso guitar work with the sensitive vocals of Steve Winwood. Their one album, with the controversial cover of a nude girl fondling a phallic airplane is a classic. Blind Faith. This 1969 release with Eric Clapton, Stevie Winwood, Ginger Baker and Rick Gretch was the only recording this "supergroup" made. "Can't Find My Way Home" is a great tune. Buffalo Springfield Buffalo Springfield with Neil Young, Stephen Stills and Richie Furay helped popularize folk rock. Their unique sound, superb harmonies, and socially relevant lyrics were a hit with the hippies. Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending how you look at it, they split up and started CS&N+Y and Poco, which continued to expand the folk/country rock tradition. For What it's Worth - (1967) Retrospective: The Best of Buffalo Springfield.

A cautionary tale for those who go up against the system. Retrospective: The Best of Buffalo Springfield Cuts like "Expecting to Fly", "Mr. Soul" and "For What it's Worth" highlight how great this band was. The Byrds David Crosby and Roger McGuinn powered this group to the top with "Eight Miles High" and "Turn! Turn! Turn!" Their cover of Dylan's "Mr. Tamborine Man" was also a big hit in 1965. Turn! Turn! Turn! - (1966) Turn! Turn! Turn! Very old lyrics (biblical), with a very timely message written by Pete Seeger. The Byrds Greatest Hits - (1996) A great collection for Byrds fans, "Turn! Turn! Turn!" was digitally remastered and includes seven bonus tracks. Joe Cocker Joe made his mark at Woodstock '69 with an incredibly soulful version of "A Little Help From My Friends" that blew everyone away. His deep, gravely voice, and on stage spasms brought the music home to us. Classics - Joe can really belt out a tune with all his being.

He does it here in "A Little Help From My Friends", "She Came In Through The Bathroom Window" and "Midnight Rider". His Mad Dogs and Englishmen is one of the all time greats, a two disk set recorded live at the Filmore East in 1970. Cream Ginger Baker, Jack Bruce and Eric Clapton played together for a short time, but their influence lingers today. Their dramatic brand of heavy rock has been imitated by many, but surpassed by none. The Very Best of Cream This recording contains 20 of Cream's hard rock tunes including "Sunshine of Your Love", "White Room" and "Strange Brew". Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) CCR's fans are legion. Their country rock sound crossed over and produced one hit after another. Fortunate Son - (1969) CCR has had so many hits, but this one hit a nerve, and was used appropriately in Forest Gump's soundtrack. An anti-war/anti-draft song it reflected the sentiment at the time.

Cosmo's Factory - This 1970 album is packed with some of CCR's best material including "Heard it Through the Grapevine", "Lookin' out my Back Door" and "Who'll Stop the Rain?". Chronicle: The 20 Greatest Hits - This collection has most of their hits including "Proud Mary", "Green River", and "Bad Moon Rising". Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (CSNY) David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash teamed up three great singers and songwriters whose harmonies transport us to another time and place. Their social relevant lyrics echo within and have inspired many a hippie to take up a cause. They have weathered many a storm (drugs, jail, alcohol, serious illness). They are reuniting again so don't miss their tour! Suite Judy Blue Eyes - (1969) This was the first song CSN played at Woodstock. It went over very well. Their tight harmonies and excellent song writing scored right from the start.

Ohio - (1971) 4 Way Street "They're cutting us down!" refers to the 1970 Kent State Massacre, wherein four students were murdered by the National Guard. Also Chicago - from the same album, is a call to protest at the trial of the Chicago Seven, who were facing charges for conspiracy and inciting a riot at the Democratic Convention in 1968. Moving song reminding us we can still "change the world". Crosby, Stills & Nash - Their first album together. A classic! "Suite Judy Blue Eyes", "Marrakech Express", and "Guinnevere" are just the first three cuts from this remarkable debut recording! Deja Vu - The second CSN album, this time with Neil Young. This classic recording includes some of their best tunes like "Carry On", "Teach Your Children" - with Jerry Garcia, "Deja Vu" and "Woodstock". 4 Way Street - Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. This two album live set is a landmark in American music. An outstanding collection of songs about love, hate, war and protest, it is the voice of a generation seeking answers.

The unsurpassed live vocal harmonies make this work stand out. Released in 1971, it was updated in 1992 with four more cuts added. Down through all of eternity the crying of humanity, 'tis then when the hurdy gurdy man comes singing songs of love. Donovan (Hurdy Gurdy Man) Donovan Donovan Leitch inspired us with his great music, excellent arrangements, and timely messages about love. His playful, joyful lyrics made us scratch our heads, light the candles and incense, and get mellow. Although his latest work is lacking those elements above, Donovan is still an icon of the Hippy movement. Mellow Yellow - (1966) Donovan's Greatest Hits This song had thousands of people doing some very weird things with bananas. Some people are still trying to figure it out. I think it was plot by Chiquita to improve sales. By the way, that's Paul McCartney doing the backup vocals. Hurdy Gurdy Man - (1967) A big hit for Donovan, it's a powerfully haunting song about the man who's "singing songs of love" at a time when it's most needed.

John Bonham, John Paul Jones and Jimmy Page (who plays an outrageous screaming guitar lead) appear just prior to the formation of Led Zeppelin. Donovan's Greatest Hits - This is definitely the best selection of Donovan's early hits. It includes "Wear Your Love Like Heaven", "The Hurdy Gurdy Man" and of course "Mellow Yellow". The Doors Jim Morrison still lives on as a rock icon. His sensuous voice, defiant attitude and iconoclastic lyrics along with Ray Manzarek's great keyboard work propelled the Doors to the top of the charts. Jim defied the authorities, pushing the envelope especially during his live performances. A passionate poet, he touched those most sensitive areas of our collective psyche. Light My Fire - (1967) The Best of the Doors One of the top hits of all time. Who didn't get turned on by Morrison's sexy lyrics? The arrangement of Light My Fire, especially Ray Manzarek's keyboards make this a psychedelic classic. The Best of the Doors - This two disk set contains the Doors biggest hits including "Light My Fire", "Riders on the Storm" and "L.A. Woman".

Bob Dylan In the early 60's Bob Dylan transformed folk music into protest music with tunes like "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are A-Changin'". These songs influenced a whole generation and just about everyone who calls himself a musician. Bob the poet reminds us that words and music can be a potent force. No can be unmoved by the urgency and power of his lyrics. Bob's continuing metamorphoses keep everyone guessing what he'll do next. Blowin' in the Wind - (1963) Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits This early protest song opened people's minds to music with a message. Powerful, direct lyrics + simple folk music + Dylan = A new musical paradigm. This too, became an anthem for the Civil Rights movement. The Times They Are A-Changin' - (1964) Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits Again, Dylan's forceful uncompromising lyrics tell it like it is! This song was prophetic. Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits. This recording has all his early hits. Another great selection from 1966 is Blonde on Blonde. The Eagles The Eagles currently consist of Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Joe Walsh, Timothy B.

Schmit, and Don Felder. Hell Freezes Over - This recent live recording does justice to all the tunes from the exceptional "Hotel California" to "Take it Easy". If you get a chance, check out the live performance on video. It's exceptional and the band has never sounded better. Emerson, Lake & Palmer The talented ELP hit it big with their excellent arrangements and style, somewhat similar to the Moody Blues. What set them apart was Keith Emerson's fantastic keyboards and Greg Lake's mood evoking voice. Emerson Lake & Palmer - This, their first album of "pomp" rock from 1970 defines their intense orchestral style with some very fine tunes including "Lucky Man" and "Take A Pebble". Keith Emerson's keyboards and Greg Lake's vocals are timeless. The Grateful Dead The enduring legacy of the Grateful Dead lives on. Jerry Garcia and company are an ongoing phenomena despite Jerry's death and the breakup of the band. The Dead's legions of devoted fans, followed them everywhere, incorporating The Letter The Boxtops Oldies 01:50 their music into a Hippy lifestyle.

Since the Dead were such an experimental and experiential band (they were involved with the Acid Tests, after all), they managed to carve out their own genre of American music. This is one group where the performance was the message. Many find their music is best enjoyed on psychedelics. The group's hip, laid back attitude was a departure from the ego-centric rock stardom that many pursued. Truckin' - (1970) American Beauty One of the legendary Dead's few commercial hits. Once you got this song in your head, you couldn't get it out, and before you knew it you were a "dead head". The Dead became the epitome of the trippy hippy band. And what a long strange trip they took.... American Beauty - This 1970 release showcases the band's song writing and is a perfect introduction. For those who want a brief overview of this prolific band try Skeletons from the Closet. For a more in-depth live experience I recommend Europe '72. The Guess Who This pop band scored a number of hits, thanks to memorable lyrics, and strong music that echoed in your head over and over. They are now playing the revival circuit. The Best of The Guess Who.

Hits include "Laughing", "American Woman", "These Eyes" and "No Time". Arlo Guthrie His folk style echoes the music of his famous folk singer father, Woody Guthrie. Arlo made a name for himself with the song and album Alice's Restaurant. His appearance at Woodstock included some memorable quotes (included in this book). The Best of Arlo Guthrie - This recording includes the hits, "Alice's Restaurant", "The City of New Orleans" and "Coming into Los Angeles". Richie Havens Richie opened Woodstock with his songs 'Handsome Johnny' (an antiwar song) and 'Freedom' (a civil rights tune). His unique style of rhythm guitar complements his deep resonant voice resulting in a powerful sound. With his intensity, Richie Havens can ignite your soul with his original songs or famous covers. From Woodstock to the present Richie still delivers music with a passion. Resume - The Best of Richie Havens. All his classic tunes are here to enjoy. Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix was one of those rare talents that appears once in a lifetime. Like a saint he walked among us to remind us that there are greater things than we can possibly understand.

Through his music he let us hear and see these wondrous things. Whether in the studio, at Woodstock, Monterey, the Isle of Wight or the Fillmore, Jimi fed his heart and soul into his music. The result was music that could lift you so high you could "Kiss the Sky" or plunge you into a 'Manic Depression'. His influence on rock music was profound. Jimi's legend lives on now that some new releases are out. Purple Haze - (1967) Are You Experienced? You ran right out and bought the record, "Are You Experienced?". Then you rushed home, put it on the turntable, and this was the first song you heard. What went through your mind? All of a sudden music was REALLY GROOVY, man! Are You Experienced? - The Jimi Hendrix Experience. This 1967 recording captured Jimi's best known works. The legendary guitarist/composer exposes his raw psychedelic talent on everything from "Purple Haze" to "Foxey Lady". Another good one is Electric Ladyland. Jimi Hendrix - Live At The Fillmore East.

Yes it's a new double album of two concerts recorded at the Fillmore, New Year's eve 1969 and New Year's day 1970. Jimi was in turmoil, and these performances were his catharsis. Experience Hendrix: The Best Of Jimi Hendrix. Yet another new release captures his greatest hits. This may be the best collection yet on one CD. Live At Woodstock [2 CD-BOX SET] - This latest release contains 16 tunes from Jimi's performance at Woodstock. Not his best since he was reforming his band and the other instruments aren't clear in the mix, but as usual, Jimi shines! A must for fans. It's A Beautiful Day The LaFlammes put out several albums and ended up in an interminable lawsuit with their original manager (it's still on). Thus they have never made anything from their albums. That said, their first release, It's a Beautiful Day is a classic from the 60s. It's A Beautiful Day - This album has become very famous due to it's scarcity. At one time a good copy would fetch about $60.

The best cut, "White Bird", really grooves thanks to the blazing violin. Other good tunes are "Hot Summer Day", "Bombay Calling" and "Wasted Union Blues". Jefferson Airplane Grace Slick, Marty Balin, Paul Kanter, Jorma Koukonen, Jack Cassady had a sound that typified the psychedelic music from San Francisco. Grace's soaring vocals, Marty's sensitive lyrics, and the rest of the bands' electric energy turned on Frisco and the rest of the world. The band has had numerous incarnations with various members such as Hot Tuna and Jefferson Starship, but the original is still the greatest. They played at Monterey Pop, Woodstock, Altamont (tried to, until Marty got punched out by a Hell's Angel) and many Fillmore and Winterland shows. Somebody to Love - (1967) Surrealistic Pillow The first hit off their Surrealistic Pillow album. When Grace Slick belted this song out, we all knew just what she meant. White Rabbit - (1967) Surrealistic Pillow This song, with references to Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland and certain drugs, got us high just listening to it.

Feed Your Head! Surrealistic Pillow - The Airplane first landed on the San Francisco music scene in 1966, and with this 1967 album (their second) took the country by storm. "Somebody to Love" and "White Rabbit" became instant classics. For all you fans there's a new release, Live at the Filmore East (1998) which showcases their legendary onstage energy. Jethro Tull Propelled by Ian Anderson's dramatic flute and eccentric lyrics Tull brought a fresh edge to rock and distinguishes this band from others of the period. Jethro Tull's powerful portrait of a social reject, Aqualung, hit you in the gut! It was an early cross of heavy metal and grunge. The whole record was a great social statement. Aqualung - (1971) Aqualung The big hit that made Jethro Tull famous. A biting comment on social misfits. Aqualung - Released in 1971 this record went to the top. The subsequent album, Living in the Past (1972) showed a mellower side of Tull.

Janis Joplin No one sang the blues like Janis. She could put more feeling into one song, than many people put into their whole lives. We feel your pain, Janis! Piece of My Heart - Janis Joplin (1968) Cheap Thrills with Brother & The Holding Company or Janis Joplin's Greatest Hits Janis rips through this one like a tortured feline. Janis Joplin's Greatest Hits. This album has a good selection of hits. For a more complete selection there's a three-CD set, Cheap Thrills/I Got Dem Ol' Kosmic Blues Again Mama!/Pearl. Big Brother & The Holding Company (with Janis Joplin of course!) This is their first major album with a classic cover from R. Crumb. "Piece of My Heart", "Summertime" and "Ball and Chain" are as gritty as Janis gets. Carole King Carole is one of the most prolific and successful songwriters in history. Her tunes were sung by many popular stars. Her music always has an emotional storytelling that captures you.

Tapestry - (1971) One of the best-selling records of all time, Tapestry showcases Carole's gift of songwriting. For something more complete try Carole King Natural Woman-Ode Collection including many songs written for artists like James Taylor and Aretha Franklin. King Crimson In The Court Of The Crimson King - Originally released in 1969, this famous album features Greg Lake singing and the guitar work of Robert Fripp. For a taste of the band's new work (minus Lake) check out their 1998 release, Absent Lovers-Live In Montreal Led Zeppelin Led Zeppelin defined heavy metal music. The hard rockin' blues of Robert Plant and Jimmy Page and their live concerts are the stuff of legends. Plant's extraordinary vocal range and Jimmy's mastery of the guitar are a great combination. Exotic influences permeate their sound sending us back in time to distant lands. If you get a chance check out their movie "The Song Remains the Same" to see their remarkable live performance. Stairway to Heaven - (1971) Led Zeppelin IV One of the biggest hits ever!

This song by the heavy metal band took everyone by surprise by being so mellow, then building to one of the great climaxes in music. Plant and Page at their best! Led Zeppelin IV This album marks the pinnacle of Led Zeppelin's career. With Stairway to Heaven the band scored it's biggest hit. The Remasters collection has all their hits sounding better than ever. John Lennon John's legacy and his inspired songwriting lives on in some new releases. Lennon's influence goes far beyond his music, as we've all been touched by his magic and spirit. Imagine - (1971) Imagine or Lennon Legend - The Very Best of John Lennon. This song sums up John's philosophy. Just imagine if John's dreams came true... Lennon Legend - The Very Best of John Lennon. This recording includes all his post Beatles hits. An excellent collection. Perhaps a better choice than the John Lennon Anthology. Loggins & Messina Kenny Loggins and Jim Messina struck up a great friendship in the early '70s. Their excellent harmonies and songwriting highlight the few recordings they did together. Sittin' In - (1972).

This upbeat album shines thanks to great songs and good vocal harmonies on tunes like "Vahevalla", "Back to Georgia" and "Nobody Like You". The Lovin' Spoonful Led by John Sebastian, this group had many hippie hits in the 60s. Anthology - The Lovin' Spoonful includes "Do You Believe in Magic?", "Daydream" and "Summer in the City". The Mamas and the Papas John Phillips led this band of trippy hippies to stardom. With Cass Elliot, Denny Doherty, and Michelle Phillips they cranked out hit after hit. Super songwriting (John) and tight harmonies were sometimes happy, sometimes sad. Their autobiographical music told of their ups and downs, lives and loves, and we loved them for it. California Dreamin' - (1966) If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears We'll probably never know how many people went to California after hearing this song. I know I did! If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears - The Mamas and Papas. This 1966 classic has "Monday, Monday" and "California Dreamin'".

If you want even more check out their Greatest Hits for 20 great tunes. Bob Marley & the Wailers Bob Marley introduced the world to Reggae music and Rastafarianism. His heartfelt music spoke volumes about injustice, freedom, and love. One of the great heroes of the common man, Marley has influenced musicians and free thinkers around the world. I Shot the Sheriff - (1973) Burnin' or Legend This hit song (Eric Clapton's version) opened up the world for Reggae music, and Bob Marley. Typically, the subject is injustice. Legend - Bob Marley and the Wailers. This album showcases the King of Reggae's biggest hits. Whether singing about Love or Protest, Bob's funky soulful sound is always spiritually satisfying. Paul McCartney Paul's pop musical style doesn't appeal to everyone, but his good natured upbeat tunes usually make us smile. Ram - (1971) Paul's best solo album has some good cuts including "Too Many People" and "Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey". Band on the Run, (1973) with Wings, is another good choice.

Joni Mitchell One of the original folk singers, Canadian Joni has explored other musical styles with great success. Her vocal range, excellent guitar playing and sometimes cynical lyrics make her a outstanding performer. Woodstock - This tune, popularized by CS&N, pretty well summed up the event and the feelings of a whole generation. Blue - Released in 1971 this great album has Stephen Stills and James Taylor on some tracks. From the love ballads here to jazz and rock Mitchell explores various styles with her unique vocals. Her latest, Taming the Tiger focuses on her jazz guitar and synth playing and is reminiscent of some of her best work. The Moody Blues Ever since their second album, Days of Future Past (their first had different band members), the Moodies captured our imagination with lush orchestrations, magnificent moog synthesizer, deep inspirational lyrics, wonderful melodies, and moving vocals. Their extraordinarily loyal and devoted fans still regard them as psychedelic rock legends, and I'm definitely one! Nights in White Satin - (1967) Days of Future Past. Justin Hayward's haunting vocals highlight this song. Time Traveler - The Moody Blues.

This five CD set covers the Moodies' extraordinary journey through time and innerspace, from Days of Future Past (1967) to Keys to the Kingdom (1991). Fortunately, they managed to keep together some of the more dramatic segues from their early albums. A must for those who don't have all the albums yet. Days of Future Past was one of the first concept albums with smooth segues between tunes (like Sgt. Pepper). The Moodies succeeded big time by blending their form of introspective rock with classical music, thanks to the London Festival Orchestra. Van Morrison This soulful crooner real packs a wallop when he wants to. He's scoring big with his new album. Moondance - The master of R&B romance scores on this one with "Moondance", "Crazy Love" and "Into the Mystic". Van Morrison was the inspiration for the movie "The Commitments". Back On Top - He scores again with this hit album that harkens back to his '70s magic. A must buy for fans and those who love good R&B music.

The New Riders of the Purple Sage NRPS rode to stardom with their laid-back country rock style with echoes of the Grateful Dead. New Riders of the Purple Sage. This 1971 release includes backup work by Jerry Garcia, Spencer Dryden, Mickey Hart and Commander Cody. Their brand of mellow country/rock is highlighted in "Glendale Train" and "Louisiana Lady". The Adventures of Panama Red is another good recording from NRPS. Peter, Paul & Mary These aging beats, along with Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie were responsible for popularizing folk music in middle America. Their beautiful harmonies made us listen to the subtle messages of peace and freedom in the lyrics. Where Have All The Flowers Gone? - Pete Seeger/Peter, Paul & Mary (1962) Includes songs that we baby boomers sang in school like "This Land is Your Land" and "If I Had a Hammer". These tunes put subtle yet influential messages in our virgin brains, whose seeds would bear fruit in our teenage years. Puff the Magic Dragon - (1963) A drug song or a fairy tale? Depends on who's listening.

After all Jackie Paper needs his friend Puff to have fun, and don't forget the sealing wax Jackie! This is still a popular children's song. Around the Campfire - Yup, they're still around and this new album has lots of their old hits and four new recordings. You can gather 'round the fire with your kids (grandkids?) and sing along to "Puff the Magic Dragon" and "Leavin' on a Jet Plane" Pink Floyd I remember my friend Floyd trying to get us to listen to an album by Pink Floyd. We looked at the Pink cover, then at him and laughed (he was a little weird after all). Well, Floyd had the last laugh as we all became addicted to the hallucinogenic band called Pink Floyd. Their psychedelic leanings were evident in the early albums Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here. Despite the band's break up, both David Gilmore and Roger Waters are still touring (separately), and packing in the legions who love to fly comfortably numb. Time - (1973) Alan Parsons produced the album Dark Side of the Moon with all it's sound effects. This record stayed on the charts for an amazing 14 years!

Time is one of the more compelling pieces, lamenting it's passage and aging. The opening sequence of clocks chiming is classic. Dark Side of the Moon - This incredible album still gets lots of play on the airwaves. Their mastery of the electronic milieu is at its finest here. Today, as in 1973 this recording has messages for us all. For a taste of the Floyd live, you must check out Pulse available on CD and Video (VHS and laserdisk). Some of the tunes here are better than the originals, and the video is outstanding. Poco This underrated group still has many fans. Their upbeat country rock was highlighted by Rusty Young's pedal steel guitar, along with Jim Messina, Richie Furay, and Timothy B. Schmit's great harmonies. The Forgotten Trail 1969-74 - This 2 CD set contains 38 cuts both live and studio and a 36 page book. Poco is a great country rock band and this recording covers all their hits including "Kind Woman", "A Good Feeling to Know" and "Pickin' up the Pieces". Procol Harum This band had a couple of great hits, then faded.

Fortunately they're back with a new recording, that makes it seem like they never left! The Best of Procol Harum (1973). This album contains their hits "Whiter Shade of Pale" and "Conquistador". Their latest release, Prodigal Stranger (1991) is much like their old stuff. The Rascals This group was very popular, and had a number of classic hippie hits. The Very Best of the Rascals. The Rascals had some big hits in the 60s and 70s including "Groovin'", "Good Lovin'" and "A Beautiful Morning", all of which are included here. The Rolling Stones Since 1964, The Stones always seemed to be the best music to play at a party. Their infectious tunes got everyone up and dancing. The lack of current hits hasn't hurt their popularity any. As long as Mick, Keith and Charlie can still stand I guess we'll have more to look forward to. Satisfaction - (1965) Hot Rocks 1964-1971 This song of social angst hit our collective button, and gave the Stones one of their greatest hits.

Flowers - (1967). Digitally remastered, this early work with Brian Jones contains the hits "Ruby Tuesday", "Lady Jane" and "Mother's Little Helpers". Another blast from the past is the 1970 Get Yer Ya-Ya's Out!, their best live album. Hot Rocks 1964-1971 - This collection of hits from their early period has everything. "Satisfaction", "Jumpin' Jack Flash", "Ruby Tuesday", "Sympathy for the Devil" and lots more! Santana Carlos Santana and company managed to define a whole genre back in the early '70s. His great performance at Woodstock made him a legend. And today he's back on the charts with a new hit. Their pioneering funky, latin, soul, rock sound is unmistakable. Carlos' mesmerizing lead guitar playing is your ticket to nirvana. It's nearly impossible to sit through this music. Dance, sister dance! Black Magic Woman - (1970) The Best of Santana This song was their greatest hit. We couldn't stop dancing while Carlos Santana's scorching riffs burned into our brains.

There have been many imitators, but no band ever did it better. Abraxas - (1970) "Black Magic Woman", "Oye Como Va" and "Hope You're Feeling Better" are just some of the great cuts on this album. Carlos Santana's guitar work is electric and the beat is sensual. This mix of rockin' salsa is outstanding. The Best of Santana. This new release showcases the bands forays into Latin/Jazz/Rock fusion. The early hits like "Oye Como Va" and "Black Magic Woman" are highlighted making this a great introduction to the band's tight funky sound. Simon & Garfunkel Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel made some beautiful music together. Their sensitive harmonies made us feel sensitive too. Simon's great songwriting talent produced hit after hit. Excellent melodies and interesting arrangements highlight their music. Old Friends - This 1997 release went back to the old masters and sounds great! All their hits are here in this three-CD set. If you don't already have their old albums, this is a good way to get caught up. Sly and the Family Stone Sly Stone embodied the upbeat, funkadelic sound that was widely copied by many.

His very lively performances made him a legend. Sly's soul funk and his personal style influenced many a disco performer. 'I Want to Take You Higher' is one of his best long live songs. Greatest Hits - Sly and the Family Stone. This collection of great music from 1970 makes you want to get up and "Dance to the Music!" Dance to the Music - (1968) Greatest Hits This funky tune was the precursor to Disco music. Steppenwolf Steppenwolf coined the term "Heavy Metal" and their sound was intense psychedelic rock. Born to Be Wild - (1968) 20th Century Masters: The Best Of Steppenwolf As the lead song on the soundtrack to Easy Rider this was sure to be a hit. It captures the spirit of the open road, freedom, and bikers. This song also was responsible for the term "Heavy Metal" as in "heavy metal thunder..." 20th Century Masters: The Best Of Steppenwolf Hits include: "Born to Be Wild", "Magic Carpet Ride" and "It's Never Too Late". Cat Stevens Cat Stevens' voice resonated somewhere deep within us.

He kept us hanging on every word he sang. Few artists have ever been able to convey their feelings so dynamically. I can't help but feel we have lost him just as we lost our other great hippie icons, suddenly, never to return. He was not the only sensitive artist to reject the call to superstardom, but he turned his back on all his fans. Since the '80s, he has devoted his life to Islam, and our lost is their gain. Tea for the Tillerman - This group of songs represents his best effort. They include "Father and Son", "Where do the Children Play", and "Hard Headed Woman" His Greatest Hits album includes "Peacetrain" and "Moonshadow". Three Dog Night This pop band had many hits and is still touring, much to the delight of their aging fans. The Best of Three Dog Night. The hits came easily to this band including "Joy to the World", "Shambala", "Eli's Coming" and "One". The Who Pete Townsend, Roger Daltry, Keith Moon and John Entwistle entered my consciousness with the song 'I Can See for Miles and Miles'.

Just like the song, the Who faded, only to return again much more triumphantly. The Who's legendary presence onstage was nowhere better than at the ill fated Isle of Wight Festival where they performed the entire Tommy rock opera among other tunes. Won't Get Fooled Again - (1971) Who's Next A great synth riff, Keith Moon's driving beat, Pete Townsend's politically inspired lyrics, and a thunderous finale make this a true rock anthem. Who's Next - One of the greatest rock albums of all time, and the Who's only #1 record. It has some of their best work, like "Baba O'Reilly", "Behind Blue Eyes" and "Won't Get Fooled Again". Full of existential and political messages, this 1971 release was remastered in 1995 with added tracks. Tommy, their famous rock opera (and movie) has several versions, all good. Yes Yes consists of Jon Anderson, Rick Wakeman, Chris Squire and Steve Howe. This is another group that's back on tour again, with a new album, The Ladder, of course!

Fragile - This 1972 recording was remastered and highlights Yes' dramatic rock style. "Roundabout" and "Long Distance Runaround" are two hits from this album. Their latest release, Open Your Eyes (1997) brings together the original band members. Neil Young This Canadian musician got his big break writing and singing with Buffalo Springfield. His popularity soared when he teamed up with Crosby, Stills & Nash. Neil went on to produce his own great solo recordings including After the Gold Rush and Harvest. Neil's style ranges from hard rock, blues, folk ballads to country. His heavy rock is credited with inspiring grunge music. After the Gold Rush - Neil Young. On this 1970 solo album Neil Young sings "Tell Me Why", "Don't Let It Bring You Down" and "Southern Man". For a great live recording check out his Unplugged album. Frank Zappa Zappa's original group The Mother's of Invention's first album, entitled "Freak Out" was very popular and way out, even for it's time. Zappa's music was a very wild, creative satire on society.

Remarking on Zappa's creative genius, one of his band members once said that Zappa would first make beautiful music, then turn it ugly (dissonant). Zappa coined many expressions and became a icon of the lack of respect for the establishment. A popular college poster from the 60's showed Zappa with his long, wild and stringy hair sitting naked on a toilet. The title was Frank Zappa Crappa. Freak Out! - Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention. The band's first album released in 1966 is still a monument to Zappa's satirical anarchy. A good place to start with Zappa. 1967 - Rock 'n Roll's greatest year! 1967 brought to our attention such phenomenal artists as Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Jefferson Airplane, The Grateful Dead, The Doors and The Moody Blues. The psychedelic San Francisco sound and the spread of LSD opened minds everywhere to new possibilities. Concept albums like Sgt. Pepper had us leaving our turntables on 33 instead of 45. Concerts like Monterey Pop were huge happenings where the audience was part of the show.

Then there was the Summer of Love.... To be alive and part of this scene was something very special. It forever changed the face of music, society and our lives. Click on the hands to go back or forward to the next chapter hippie | subculture | Britannica.com subculture Haight-Ashbury Hippie, also spelled hippy, member, during the 1960s and 1970s, of a countercultural movement that rejected the mores of mainstream American life. The movement originated on college campuses in the United States , although it spread to other countries, including Canada and Britain . The name derived from “hip,” a term applied to the Beats of the 1950s, such as Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac , who were generally considered to be the precursors of hippies. Although the movement arose in part as opposition to U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War (1955–75), hippies were often not directly engaged in politics, as opposed to their activist counterparts known as “Yippies” (Youth International Party).

Members of the Hog Farm commune celebrate the Fourth of July, 1968, aboard their bus, the … © Lisa Law/The Image Works Hippies felt alienated from middle-class society, which they saw as dominated by materialism and repression, and they developed their own distinctive lifestyle. They favoured long hair and casual, often unconventional, dress, sometimes in “psychedelic” colours. Many males grew beards, and both men and women wore sandals and beads. Long flowing granny dresses were popular with women, and rimless granny glasses with both men and women. Hippies commonly took up communal or cooperative living arrangements, and they often adopted vegetarian diets based on unprocessed foods and practiced holistic medicine. For many The Whole Earth Catalog , which first appeared in 1968, became a source for the necessities of life. Hippies tended to be dropouts from society, forgoing regular jobs and careers, although some developed small businesses that catered to other hippies. Hippies advocated nonviolence and love, a popular phrase being “Make love, not war,” for which they were sometimes called “flower children.” They promoted openness and tolerance as alternatives to the restrictions and regimentation they saw in middle-class society.

Hippies often practiced open sexual relationships and lived in various types of family groups. They commonly sought spiritual guidance from sources outside the Judeo-Christian tradition, particularly Buddhism and other Eastern religions , and sometimes in various combinations. Astrology was popular, and the period was often referred to as the Age of Aquarius. Hippies promoted the recreational use of hallucinogenic drugs , particularly marijuana and LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), in so-called head trips, justifying the practice as a way of expanding consciousness . Similar Topics socialism Both folk and rock music were an integral part of hippie culture . Singers such as Bob Dylan and Joan Baez and groups such as the Beatles , Grateful Dead , Jefferson Airplane , and Rolling Stones were among those most closely identified with the movement. The musical Hair, a celebration of the hippie lifestyle, opened on Broadway in 1968, and the film Easy Rider , which reflected hippie values and aesthetics , appeared in 1969. The novelist Ken Kesey was one of the best-known literary spokesmen for the movement, but he became equally famous for the bus tours he made with a group called the Merry Pranksters.

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (centre) with George Harrison (left) and John Lennon (right), at a UNICEF … Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images (From left to right) Dennis Hopper, Peter Fonda, and Jack Nicholson in Easy … © Columbia Pictures Corporation Public gatherings—part music festivals, sometimes protests, often simply excuses for celebrations of life—were an important part of the hippie movement. The first “be-in,” called the Gathering of the Tribes, was held in San Francisco in 1967. A three-day music festival known as Woodstock , held in rural New York state in 1969, drew an estimated 400,000–500,000 people and became virtually synonymous with the movement. Hippies participated in a number of teach-ins at colleges and universities in which opposition to the Vietnam War was explained, and they took part in antiwar protests and marches. They joined other protesters in the “moratorium”—a nationwide demonstration—against the war in 1969. They were involved in the development of the environmental movement . The first Earth Day was held in 1970.

Poster for the Woodstock Music and Art Fair, August 15–17, 1969. PRNewsFoto/Signatures Network/AP Images The Hippie Counter Culture Movement (1960’s) – Mortal Journey · Updated April 12, 2014 The 1960’s are defined by the hippie counter-culture craze that invaded the lives of every citizen in the United States and around the world. What were hippies and their counter-culture movement? The 1960’s hippie counter culture movement involved a variety of social concerns and beliefs. The hippies’ primary tenet was that life was about being happy, not about what others thought you should be. Their “if it feels good, do it” attitudes included little forethought nor concern for the consequences of their actions. Hippies were dissatisfied with what their parents had built for them, a rather strange belief given that their parents had built the greatest booming economy the world had ever seen. Hippies rejected established institutions.

Calling them “The Establishment”, “Big Brother”, and “The Man”, hippies believed the dominant mainstream culture was corrupt and inherently flawed and sought to replace it with a Utopian society. Hippies rejected middle class values, opposed nuclear weapons and the Vietnam War. They embraced aspects of eastern philosophy and sought to find new meaning in life. Hippies were often vegetarian and believed in eco friendly environmental practices. They championed free love and sexual liberation, particularly for women. They also promoted the use of psychedelic drugs which they believed expanded their consciousness. Hippies participated in alternative arts and street theater and listened to folk music and psychedelic rock as part of their anti-establishment lifestyle. They opposed political and social violence and promoted a gentle ideology that focused on peace, love, and personal freedom. Some hippies lived in communes or aggregated communities of other hippies. Some described the 1960’s hippies movement as a religious movement. Hippies created their own counter culture founded on psychedelic rock and the embracement of the sexual revolution. Drugs such as marijuana and LSD were tightly integrated into their culture as a means to explore altered states of consciousness.

Contrary to what many believe, hippies tended to avoid harder drugs such as heroin and amphetamines because they considered them harmful or addictive. Hippie dress, which they believed was part of the statement of who you were, included brightly colored, ragged clothes, tie-dyed t-shirts, beads, sandals (or barefoot), and jewelry, all of which served to differentiate them from the “straight” or “square” mainstream segments of society. Their aversion to commercialism also influenced their style of dress. Much of their clothing was often purchased at flea markets or second hand shops. Hippie men wore their hair long and typically wore beards and mustaches while the women wore little or no makeup and often went braless (occasionally shirtless). The peace symbol became the hippie official logo and the VW bus their official means of group transportation. Hippies often drove VW buses painted with colorful graphics so they could quickly pack up and travel to where the action was at any given time. Their gypsy like travel habits also meant many hitchhiked to get to and from major hippie events.

History of hippies and the counter culture movement The origin of the word “hippie” derives from “hipster” which was first coined by Harry Gibson in 1940 in a song titled “Harry the Hipster” (as Harry referred to himself). In the song, hipsters were beatniks who had moved into New York City’s Greenwich Village. Beatniks were followers of the Beat Generation literary movement who through their writings, promoted anti-conformist attitudes and ideals. The first clearly used instance of the term “hippie” occurred on September 5, 1965 in the article “A New Haven for Beatniks” by San Francisco journalist Michael Fallon (who was writing about the Blue Unicorn coffeehouse). Similar counter culture movements had occurred in Germany between 1896 and 1908. Known as Wandervogel (which translates roughly to “migratory bird”), the youth movement arose as a countercultural reaction to the urbanization that was occurring in Germany at the time. Wandervogel youth opposed traditional German values and forms of entertainment and instead emphasized amateur music and singing, creative dress, and communal outings involving hiking and camping.

They were a back-to-the-earth generation who yearned for the simple, sparse, back-to-nature spiritual life of their ancestors. In later years, the Wandervogel Germans immigrated to the United States where they opened many West Coast area health food stores. Many moved to Southern California. Over time other Americans adapted the beliefs and practices of the Wandervogel youth. Songwriter Eden Ahbez wrote a hit song called Nature Boy that was inspired by the Wandervogel follower, Robert Bootzin. The song helped popularized health consciousness, yoga, and organic food throughout the United States. The Beat Generation and Beatniks Following the Wandervogel youth movement, the 1950’s introduced the “Beat Generation” to the United States. The Beat Generation were a fringe group of American writers who came to prominence in the 1950’s. Allen Ginsberg’s Howl (1956), William S. Burroughs’s Naked Lunch (1959) and Jack Kerouac’s On the Road (1957) are among the best known examples of Beat literature.

Because of their explicit descriptions of homosexual sex (many of the central Beat Generation authors were openly homosexual), the books Howl and Naked Lunch became the focus of United States obscenity trials. Ultimately the results of the trials helped to liberalize publishing in the United States. The term “beat” came from “tired” or “beaten down” which is how the Beat Generation described their era. Followers of the Beat Generation came to be known as “beatniks”, a combination of the words “Beat Generation” and the recently launched Russian satellite Sputnik (Sputnik used in the collective because it was “far out of mainstream society”). Central elements of the “Beat” were drug experimentation and alternative forms of sexuality (particularly homosexuality), an interest in Eastern religion, and a general rejection of materialism. Beatniks soon developed a reputation as bohemian hedonists who celebrated non-conformity and spontaneous creativity. A large number of beatniks moved from New York City to San Francisco in the late 1950’s and became in integral part of the upcoming hippie counter culture movement. The hippies arrive in California Chandler A.

Laughlin II, cofounder of the infamous Cabale Creamery club in Berkeley, was greatly influenced by the Beat Generation and their beatnik culture. In 1963, Laughlin followed their lead and established a tight family-like identity among 50 people in Greenwich Village in New York City and later Berkeley, California. Laughlin recruited many of the early psychedelic musical talent acts including the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Iron Butterfly, The Charlatans, and others. Laughlin and George Hunter of The Charlatans band, were true “proto-hippies” wearing long hair, boots, and outrageous clothing. Together they opened the Red Dog Saloon in the old mining town of Virginia City, Nevada. The Red Dog Saloon became a focal point of drugs and psychedelic music festivals. During this time, LSD manufacturer Owsley Stanley, who also lived in Berkeley, provided much of the LSD to the burgeoning hippie scene. Stanley, an ex-army radar operator, converted his amphetamines lab to an LSD lab and became one of the first millionaire drug dealers in the United States. His LSD product became a part of the “Red Dog Experience”, the early evolution of psychedelic rock and the budding hippie culture.

At the Red Dog Saloon, the Charlatans were the first psychedelic rock band to play live while high on LSD. The Red Dogs move to San Francisco In October of 1965, many Red Dog participants returned to their native San Francisco where they created a new collective called “The Family Dog”. On October 16, 1965, The Family Dog hosted “A Tribute to Dr. Strange” at the Longshoreman’s Hall in San Francisco. The event was the first psychedelic rock performance in San Francisco. Over 1,000 “hippies” attended to watch Jefferson Airplane perform alongside a rudimentary dance and light show. Additional psychedelic rock shows followed, including the infamous January 22, 1966 Grateful Dead performance where 6,000 people were given punch spiked with LSD and treated to the first fully-developed, elaborate light show. As attendance exploded at the psychedelic rock shows, The Family Dog became Red Dog Productions and event locations were expanded. More performance/parties were held at venues such as the Avalon Ballroom and the Fillmore Auditorium.

These shows were full psychedelic musical experiences with light shows combined with the colorful film projections that became the staple of the 1966’s hippie events. Event attendees often wore colorful, outlandish costumes to these shows. By June of 1966, San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district was the epicenter of the hippie movement. The area was already primed to become the center of hippie activity as its residents consisted of beatniks, writers, artists, and musicians. About 15,000 hippies had moved to the area including the psychedelic bands The Charlatans, Jefferson Airplane, Big Brother, and Holding Company. The hippies accepted into their family the performance group The Diggers, a street theater group who combined spontaneous street theater with anarchistic action and art happenings. The Diggers sought to build an alternative free society where every need and desire could be obtained for free. By late 1966, The Diggers had opened public stores that provided free food (some of which was stolen off the backs of trucks), distributed free drugs, gave away money, and organized music concerts and art events.

In October 1966, California became the first state to make LSD illegal when they declared LSD a controlled substance. In response to the criminalization of their psychedelic drug, San Francisco hippies staged a gathering in the Golden Gate Park. The event was called the Love Pageant Rally. The purpose of the event was to demonstrate that those who used LSD were not evil, criminals, or mentally ill. It was the first incidence of political activism initiated by the hippies. Drugs were handed out to participants and the hippies put tabs of LSD on their tongues in front of police in protest of the new law. The Summer of Love On January 14, 1967 the Human Be-In event was held in Golden State Park in San Francisco. This event, which received extensive media coverage from the major networks, popularized the hippie culture throughout the United States and led to the legendary Summer of Love on the West Coast. Three thousand hippies were expected but thirty thousand hippies showed up and gathered in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park to celebrate the hippie culture.

The Diggers secretly slipped LSD into the free turkey sandwiches that were handed out to all attendees and the media was treated to an all-out drug exhibition as drug addled hippies danced and sang before the cameras. Three months later, on March 26, 1967, 10,000 hippies came together in Manhattan for the Central Park Be-In. Scott McKenzie’s rendition of the John Phillips’ song, San Francisco, became a huge hit in the United States and Europe. One lyric, “If you’re going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair” inspired thousands to travel to San Francisco, many wearing flowers in their hair and distributing flowers to passerby at intersections and on the street. The name “Flower Children” stuck. Articles about the hippie movement appeared in prominent mainstream magazines including Time Magazine who ran the story, The Hippies: The Philosophy of a Subculture. The Time magazine cover story described the guidelines for being a hippie: “Do you own thing, wherever you have to do and whenever you want. Drop out. Leave society as you have known it. Leave it utterly. Blow the mind of every straight person you can reach.

Turn them on, if not to drugs, then to beauty, love, honesty, and fun.” It has been estimated that 100,000 people travelled to San Francisco during the summer of 1967. The media followed the movement of the hippies casting a spotlight on the Haight-Ashbury district where many of the psychedelic bands lived and played. In the hippies’ eyes, they had become freaks and little more than a sideshow for the amusement of visiting tourists. Many began to flee Haight in search of calmer, more remote settings. The death of the hippie At the end of summer 1967, The Diggers declared the “death” of the hippie movement and burned an effigy of a hippie in Golden Gate Park. The Haight-Ashbury scene had deteriorated dramatically. The Haight Ashbury district simply could not accommodate the influx of hundreds of thousands of hippies. Many hippies, some no older than teenagers, took to living on the street, panhandling, and drug dealing. Problems such as malnourishment, disease, and drug addiction grew prominent in the Haight community.

Crime and violence in the area skyrocketed as homeless drug addicted hippies stole to survive and drug dealers moved in to control the drug trade. By the end of 1967, many of the hippies and musicians who initiated the Summer of Love moved on, leaving many misgivings about the hippie culture, particularly with regards to their drug abuse and lenient morality. Although the hippie movement died in Haight, it was still alive in the United States and moving eastward. By 1968, the movement continued to cross the country. Hippie fashion trends spread into the mainstream, especially popular with young teenagers and young adults of the populous “Baby Boomer” generation. Longer hair for men, beads, feathers, flowers, and bells were worn by many teenagers of the era even though they did not necessarily delve deep into the hippie culture or the hardcore hippie beliefs that were prominent from 1966 through 1967. The movement even spread overseas to Britain and Australia. Around this time, the hippie movement began to take on dire meaning to the mainstream public. The “Yippies”, led by Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin, were notorious for their theatrics.

The Yippies tried to levitate the Pentagon at an October 1967 war protest. They used the slogan, “rise up and abandon the creeping meatball”. Civil disobedience was encouraged – over 3,000 took over Grand Central Station in New York resulting in 61 arrests. They even nominated their own candidate for the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago – Lyndon Pigasus Pie (an actual pig). Their silly theatrics were unpopular and looked down upon by the mainstream public who generally wanted a country governed by law and order. People’s Park – the hippie era turns violent In April 1969, citizens, including many hippies, were disgusted with the decrepit conditions of a vacant lot on the University of California campus. The university had taken the homes of area residents through eminent domain and demolished all buildings on a 2.8 acre lot. The lot was subsequently ignored by the University and became quite an eyesore for the neighborhood. Partially demolished buildings, debris and rubble were scattered throughout the lot. Eventually people began dumping old abandoned cars on the empty lot until it became a sort of junk yard.

Citizens, including hippies, took matters into their own hands and planted trees, shrubs, flowers, and grass to convert the vacant lot into a park which they affectionately named People’s Park. The radical form of political activism was frowned upon by the authorities. Reagan, already angered that the University allowed student demonstrations, called the Berkeley campus “a haven for communist sympathizers, protesters and sex deviants.” A major confrontation occurred one month later when on May 15, 1969 Governor Ronald Reagan ordered the park destroyed and a protective chain link fence built around it to keep people out. Riots quickly followed as students attempted to “take back the park”. The police were called in and over 128 Berkeley residents were taken to area hospitals for head trauma, shotgun wounds, and other serious injuries inflicted by the police. One student was killed by a police shotgun blast and another man permanently blinded. This led to a two week occupation of Berkeley by the United States National Guard after Reagan called a state of emergency. During the National Guard occupation, students snuck into the park at night and planted flowers. Each morning the National Guard destroyed all flowers that had been planted the night before.

Police were caught parking their vehicles several blocks away from the park and ironically, donning pig Halloween masks, attacking citizens that they found near the park. A year later, similar violence would erupt at Kent State University, killing four students and seriously wounding nine. “These differing perspectives mirrored widespread 1960s societal tensions that tended to flow along generational lines regarding the war in Vietnam, race relations, sexual customs, women’s rights, traditional modes of authority, experimentation with psychedelic drugs and opposing interpretations of the American Dream. “ A wall began to form between the hippies and the general public. Woodstock ends the hippie era The gap that existed between the hippies and mainstream society widened. In August 1969, 500,000 people attended the Woodstock Music and Art Fair in Bethel, New York. Bands at the event included Joan Baez, Janis Joplin, Grateful Dead, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Carlos Santana, The Who, Jefferson Airplane, and Jimi Hendrix. The Wavy Gravy Hog Farm provided security for what was a mostly peaceful event.

The mainstream public was treated to visuals of drug using hippies covered in mud and exhibiting bizarre behavior. In that same month, Sharon Tate (and her unborn baby) and Leno and Rosemary LeBianca were murdered by Charles Manson, a former Haight-Ashbury resident, and his “followers”, who the public identified as drug crazed hippies. Counter culture catastrophes continued. In December 1969, 300,000 people attended the Altamont Free Concert where the Rolling Stones, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, and Jefferson Airplane played. The Hells Angels provided security for the event. 18 year old African American Meredith Hunter was stabbed and killed during the Rolling Stones performance. By 1970, the hippie movement began to wane. The events at the Alatamont Free concert shocked many people including some who had supported the hippie movement. Several hippie mega-stars, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Jim Morrison, overdosed on drugs. The Charles Manson murders also contributed to the public hatred of the hippies.

Soon, hippies were being physically attacked on the streets by skinheads, punks, athletes, greasers, and members of other youth subcultures. The impact of the hippie movement The impact, good and bad, of the 1960’s hippie movement cannot be denied. The movement influenced popular music, television, film, literature, and the arts. The music industry, particularly the rock music segment, experienced an explosion in sales that has continued to this day. In subsequent years, unmarried couples no longer felt persecuted for living together. Frankness regarding sexual matters was common. Religious and cultural diversity gained greater acceptance. Even fashion was impacted as the popularity of the necktie and other business apparel declined and was replaced by more casual dress standards. Some changes were not as positive though. Some argue that the movement ushered in more liberal press and movies which has led to a degradation of our cultural values and ethics. Youth fashions became more and more bizarre , and sexual, in an attempt to rebel against the mainstream values. Some argue that the embrace of spontaneity and worship of the “primitive” have turned us towards mindlessness and violence.

Question: What was the name of the first hippie musical?
Answer: Hair